How can leaders scale quantum adoption?3 Adoption necessitates a shift from exploration to execution in the journey. We introduce a pragmatic framework to help leaders assess the relevance of quantum technologies to their organizations, identify high- impact use cases and guide early adoption efforts, enabling decision-makers to prioritize investments and build organizational readiness. Subsequently, we examine the broader enablers and ecosystem shifts that must evolve to realize the full potential of quantum technologies in manufacturing and supply chains operations. Proactive investment in quantum capabilities today will determine tomorrow’s leaders. The quantum era is here, as evident by the recent announcements from Google, IBM, Microsoft and other leading technology companies.31 As these technologies transition from research labs into real-world applications, manufacturers and supply chain leaders must prepare for their adoption. This journey begins with cultivating quantum awareness at the leadership level, identifying high impact use cases, co-creating solutions with cross-functional teams and technology vendors, and investing in workforce development and strategic partnerships. Industrial organizations should identify a C-level sponsor to lead these efforts, ensuring alignment with core business goals while keeping experimentation anchored to strategic needs. For instance, leading chemical manufacturers can focus on developing more efficient catalysts to improve production yields and minimize environmental impact in competitive markets. Technology executives are encouraged to take a hands-on, iterative approach by piloting projects on available quantum hardware platforms, experimenting with quantum algorithms tailored to industry challenges, and evaluating both full quantum and hybrid quantum-classical solutions. Engaging with technology providers on pilot initiatives helps build internal understanding, identify promising applications and prepare organizations for informed decisions as quantum technology matures. To support this measured approach, leaders in advanced manufacturing and supply chains can explore targeted initiatives across key quantum domains where it is delivering value today. Figure 7 provides an overview of these areas and offers a starting point for organizations to assess relevance, build internal alignment and position themselves for immediate opportunities in quantum innovation. For example, global logistics providers can assess pressing supply chain challenges and explore quantum optimization for effective solutions. Cloud-based quantum platforms now allow companies to experiment without large upfront investments.32 They allow operations executives to test quantum computing algorithms and quantum circuits on specific challenges while building expertise. By running low-risk pilots leveraging hybrid computing approaches and cloud-based platforms, organizations can focus on measurable outcomes and position themselves to lead, not follow, in the quantum age. 3.1 Building quantum readiness and platforms Leaders in advanced manufacturing and supply chains can explore targeted initiatives across key quantum domains where it is delivering value today. Quantum Technologies: Key Opportunities for Advanced Manufacturing and Supply Chains 20

Quantum Technologies Key Opportunities for Advanced Manufacturing and Supply Chains 2025